Dear Editor,
The issue of free education at the University of Guyana has been a hot topic in recent political discourse, with the APNU/AFC Coalition scrutinising the PPP/C Government’s pace of work in delivering this promise.
However, closer examination reveals that the APNU/AFC Coalition lacks the moral authority to criticise the current administration. Three key points highlight the coalition’s shortcomings in this regard: their failure to initiate free university education; a substantial increase in fees during their tenure; and a general absence of a credible track record in delivering benefits to the Guyanese people.
One of the glaring shortcomings of the APNU/AFC Coalition during its time in power was its failure to take substantive steps toward delivering free university education. The promise of accessible higher education is a fundamental pillar for the development of any nation, fostering an educated and skilled workforce. The coalition’s inability to actualize this promise underscores its lack of commitment to the socio-economic advancement of Guyana. By neglecting to address the financial barriers hindering students from pursuing higher education, the APNU/AFC Coalition demonstrates a significant moral lapse in criticizing the current Government’s efforts.
Compounding their failure to provide free university education, the APNU/AFC Coalition exacerbated the financial burden on students by instituting a substantial 35% increase in fees at the University of Guyana. This decision directly contradicts the principles of affordability and inclusivity that are integral to fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal development. By imposing such a significant financial strain on students, the Coalition further diminishes its moral standing to criticize the PPP/C Government’s approach to free education.
Beyond the specific issue of free education, the APNU/AFC Coalition’s broader track record is marked by a lack of tangible accomplishments for the Guyanese people. Whether in the realms of healthcare, infrastructure, or social services, the Coalition’s tenure did not witness notable improvements that would inspire confidence in their ability to address the pressing needs of the nation.
Without a credible track record of delivering positive outcomes for the citizens, the Coalition’s criticisms of the PPP/C Government’s pace of work ring hollow, and lack the moral authority necessary to sway public opinion.
Already, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme has awarded 21,442 scholarships to Guyanese in the ten administrative regions in less than two years; and 15,442 of those went to women. In addition, in 2023, another 400 Guyanese were provided Government of Guyana scholarships via the Ministry of Public Service. The APNU+AFC Coalition’s critique of the PPP/C Government’s efforts to deliver free education at the University of Guyana is inherently flawed due to its own shortcomings during its time in power.
To engage in meaningful criticism, political actors must demonstrate a commitment to the principles they advocate, and the APNU/AFC Coalition falls short on this front. As Guyana navigates its path towards educational inclusivity, a more constructive and principled dialogue is essential for the betterment of the nation.
Sincerely,
Alvin Hamilton
